Duricef

Duricef Prescribing Information

This medication is also called by the name Cefadroxil. It is an antibiotic medication that helps in the treatment of infections that result from bacteria. It is also known as a cephalosporin antibiotic. It curbs the growth of bacteria by attacking their formation of cell wall. This results to the death of these bacteria.

Uses of Duricef

Here are some of the common uses of Duricef:

• Bacterial Infections: Medicine is primarily used to treat bacterial infections caused by susceptible organisms. It can be prescribed for infections in various parts of the body, including the skin, respiratory tract, urinary tract, and soft tissues.
• Skin Infections: Duricef can be effective in treating skin infections such as cellulitis, impetigo, and folliculitis.
• Respiratory Tract Infections: It is used to treat respiratory tract infections like bronchitis, pneumonia, and strep throat.
• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Antibiotic is commonly prescribed for uncomplicated urinary tract infections caused by susceptible bacteria.
• Ear Infections: It can be used to treat certain types of ear infections, especially in cases where the infection is caused by susceptible bacteria.
• Soft Tissue Infections: Duricef can be used to treat infections of soft tissues, such as muscles and connective tissues.
• Prevention of Infections: In some cases, Duricef might be used to prevent certain types of bacterial infections, especially in individuals who are at a high risk of infection.

Antibiotic resistance is a growing concern, so it's crucial to use antibiotics like Duricef responsibly and only when necessary to avoid contributing to the development of resistant bacterial strains.

Side effects of Duricef

There might be some unnecessary occurrences caused because of the use of Duricef. The doctor must inform the patient regarding these unnecessary signs as it might affect the well-being of the patient concerned. Below the commonly occurring side effects are mentioned for better understanding.

Major side effects

• Chills
• Presence of blood in stools or urine
• Bleeding gums
• Tarry, black stools
• Dark-coloured urine
• Hoarseness or cough
• Loosening, peeling, or blistering of the skin
• Rash
• Itching
• Fever
• Diarrhoea
• Having difficulty while moving
• Feeling uncomfortable
• Redness or flushing of the skin
• General feeling of weakness or tiredness
• Joint inflammation
• Headache
• Muscle or joint pain difficult or painful urination
• Muscle stiffness or pain
• Side or lower back pain
• Light-coloured stools
• Skin lesions, red in colour with a purple centre
• Yellowish skin or eyes
• Vomiting
• Unusual warm skin
• Unusual bruising or bleeding
• Lymph nodes are swollen
• Continuous stomach pain
• Irritated, red eyes
• Ulcers, white spots, or sores appearing on the mouth or lips

Minor side effects

• White coloured and thick vaginal discharge without odour or with slight odour
• Skin turning red
• Experience of pain while having sexual intercourse
• Pain or itching near the genital area
• Welts or hives
• Stomach pain, upset, or discomfort
• Heartburn
• Indigestion
• Belching
• Sour or acid stomach

Interaction with other drugs

Duricef can interact with other drugs, potentially affecting their effectiveness or causing adverse effects. It's important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking before starting Duricef. Here are some examples of drug interactions that could occur:

• Probenecid: Probenecid is a medication used to treat gout and can affect the way your body processes Duricef. It may increase the levels of this drug in your blood, potentially leading to higher chances of side effects.
• Loop Diuretics: Certain diuretics, like furosemide, are known as loop diuretics. They can reduce the excretion of Duricef by the kidneys, leading to increased levels of the antibiotic in the body.
• Methotrexate: Methotrexate is a medication used for various conditions, including autoimmune disorders and cancer. The combination of methotrexate and Duricef can increase the risk of methotrexate toxicity.
• Oral Contraceptives: Medicine can potentially reduce the effectiveness of hormonal birth control methods like oral contraceptives. This could increase the risk of unintended pregnancies.
• Antacids and H2 Blockers: Taking antacids or H2 blockers (used to reduce stomach acid) around the same time as Duricef might decrease the absorption of Duricef, reducing its effectiveness.
• Aminoglycosides: Combining drug with certain other antibiotics, like aminoglycosides, can sometimes have an additive effect on kidney function. This can increase the risk of kidney problems.
• Blood Thinners (Anticoagulants): While there isn't a well-documented interaction, there is a theoretical possibility that Duricef might interact with blood thinning medications, potentially affecting blood clotting. However, this interaction is not commonly reported.

What to avoid while on Duricef

While taking Duricef, there are certain things you should avoid to ensure the medication's effectiveness and to minimize the risk of potential side effects. Here are some guidelines to follow:

• Alcohol: Avoid excessive alcohol consumption while on Duricef. Alcohol can interact with the antibiotic and potentially increase the risk of side effects, such as stomach upset or dizziness. Additionally, alcohol can weaken your immune system, which might counteract the antibiotic's effects.
• Antacids and Calcium Supplements: If you need to take antacids or calcium supplements, try to take them at least 2 hours before or after taking this antibiotic. Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium, as well as calcium supplements, can interfere with the absorption of Duricef and reduce its effectiveness.
• Dairy Products: Calcium-rich dairy products, such as milk, yogurt, and cheese, can also interfere with the absorption of Duricef. Try to avoid consuming these products around the time you take your medication.
• Iron Supplements: Similar to calcium, iron supplements can reduce the absorption of Duricef. If you need to take iron supplements, do so at least 2 hours before or after taking capsules.
• Birth Control Pills: If you are using hormonal birth control methods, such as oral contraceptives, be aware that Duricef might reduce the effectiveness of these methods. Consider using an additional form of contraception while on the antibiotic and for a short period afterward.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Some individuals may experience side effects like dizziness or drowsiness while taking Duricef. If you experience these effects, avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating heavy machinery, until you know how the medication affects you.
• Sun Exposure: While Duricef itself is not known to cause increased sun sensitivity, illness and antibiotic use can sometimes make your skin more sensitive to the sun. If you are spending time outdoors, consider using sunscreen and protective clothing.
• Excessive Physical Exertion: If you are experiencing an infection, your body needs time to heal. Avoid excessive physical exertion or strenuous exercise until you are feeling better, as this can delay the healing process.
• Stopping Treatment Early: It's important to complete the full course of antibiotics prescribed by your doctor, even if you start feeling better before the medication is finished. Stopping treatment prematurely could lead to incomplete eradication of the infection and contribute to antibiotic resistance.

Contraindications

There are certain conditions which if a patient may have, this medication should be avoided. Doctors must not prescribe this drug to them as it can be hazardous to their health. They can be:

• Having allergy towards cephalosporins betalactams
• Clostridium difficile colitis
• Moderate or even mil kidney impairment

Duricef and Pregnancy

Research studies conducted by the Michigan Medicaid could not find many evidences on the correlation between Duricef and congenital effects. The FDA has assigned this particular drug to the pregnancy category B. This means, that other research studies on animal subjects as well were unable show any potential risks caused due to the usage of this medication. But, there has not been any controlled experimentation on human participants. This means that this medication should only be used if it is absolutely necessary.